As the sun sets on summer, I often find myself longing for the flavors of the season—especially the sweet crunch of fresh corn. One day, while rummaging through my pantry, I decided to create something that would celebrate this lovely ingredient, and that’s how my Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata came to life. This dish is a delightful melody of textures, featuring perfect al dente bucatini nestled in a smooth, creamy sauce that showcases the sweetness of late-summer corn. The addition of luxurious burrata takes this meal over the top, making it not just comforting but utterly indulgent.
The best part? This recipe lets you savor summer’s bounty while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner or impressive enough for a cozy gathering. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness, where every bite reminds you of lazy afternoons and warm sunshine. You won’t want to miss out on this creamy delight!
Why is Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata a Must-Try?
Sweetness Abounds: Fresh corn is the star of this dish, bursting with natural sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Indulgent Flavor: The rich, buttery sauce and luscious burrata bring a gourmet touch, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious meal.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Versatile Options: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or veggies for a heartier dish. Think of tossing in some shredded chicken or fresh spinach for that extra nutritional boost!
Seasonal Delight: Embrace the flavors of late summer and make the most of fresh ingredients that nourish your body and soul.
This Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata dish is truly a celebration of summer’s flavors!
Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Dried Bucatini – This pasta provides a delightful structure and chewiness; any long pasta can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Pasta Water – Reserve this liquid to help create a creamy consistency in the sauce.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich depth of flavor; for a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead.
• Fresh Corn Kernels – The star of the dish, contributing natural sweetness and texture; sweet corn is best, but frozen can work too.
• Chili Flakes – Adds a hint of heat to the dish; adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the dish’s overall flavor; feel free to adjust according to personal preference.
• Burrata – This creamy cheese elevates the dish into something indulgent; substitute with fresh mozzarella if needed.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides a final touch of spice; adjust according to taste.
• Fresh Chives – Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color; can be swapped for green onions or omitted if necessary.
This Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata is a celebration of late summer goodness, and with these fresh ingredients, you’re sure to impress!
How to Make Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata
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Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the dried bucatini according to the package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Remember to reserve 1½ cups of pasta water before draining!
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Sauté Corn: In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add ¾ of the corn kernels, chili flakes, and kosher salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring until the corn is bright yellow and tender.
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Simmer Mixture: Pour in the reserved pasta water and let the corn mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and create a lovely, creamy sauce texture.
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Blend Sauce: Using an immersion blender, blend the corn mixture directly in the pot until it’s mostly smooth and creamy, leaving a few chunks for texture and flavor.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained bucatini to the blended sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand evenly. Taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as desired.
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Serve with Style: Plate the pasta, generously topping it with the remaining corn kernels, broken pieces of burrata, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, and finely minced chives. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata?
Looking to create a delightful dining experience that complements the creamy richness of this pasta dish?
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Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luxurious sauce, this bread adds a savory crunch to the meal. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, brightening each bite. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added color and crunch.
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Roasted Asparagus: Its tender, slightly crisp texture and earthy flavor make roasted asparagus a fabulous side—it’s healthy and enhances the overall dish beautifully.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely, harmonizing with the sweetness of corn while balancing the richness of burrata.
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Lemon Sorbet: Serve this refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate after your creamy indulgence. Its zesty flavor offers a perfect light finish to the meal!
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Adding a protein element, these skewers are juicy and flavorful, complementing the dish without overshadowing its creamy elegance.
Let each pairing enhance your enjoyment of this delightful bowl that celebrates the joys of summer!
Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own—your taste buds will thank you!
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Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and flavor.
For a heartier bowl, consider grilling the chicken with some spices for extra taste! -
Green Goodness: Toss in wilted spinach or arugula for a vibrant nutritional boost.
The greens will not only enhance the dish’s color but also add a fresh pop of taste in every bite. -
Herb Infusion: Substitute fresh chives with basil or parsley for an aromatic lift.
Fresh herbs elevate the whole dish, adding a fragrant note that sings summer vibes. -
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace burrata with a vegan cheese alternative to cater to dietary needs.
You won’t miss out on creaminess when using a well-blended cashew cheese or coconut yogurt! -
Zesty Twist: Add lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for a bright, tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
This little addition can truly lighten up the dish and awaken your senses with citrus freshness. -
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts to bring in delightful crunch and depth.
These nuts will offer a lovely textural contrast, turning your dish into something extra special. -
Spice it Up: Increase the chili flakes or add fresh diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
A little spice can completely transform the dish, adding warmth and an exciting tang to savor. -
Veggie Medley: Mix in other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and color.
Not only do these veggies complement the dish beautifully, but they also keep it fresh and wholesome!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the corn sauce up to 24 hours in advance, blending it and refrigerating it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture. The bucatini should be cooked fresh to maintain its al dente bite, but you can store the cooked pasta separately for up to 3 days in the fridge. To finish, simply reheat the sauce in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency, then toss in the freshly cooked bucatini. This approach allows you to save time on busy weeknights while still delivering a delicious, comforting meal!
Expert Tips for Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata
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Perfect Pasta: Always cook bucatini until just al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce, ensuring a delightful texture.
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Reserve Wisely: Don’t forget to reserve the pasta water! It’s essential for achieving a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the bucatini.
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Taste Test: Taste your sauce before serving; adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper to really enhance the dish’s flavors of the Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata.
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Corn Choice: Use peak-season sweet corn for the best flavor. If fresh isn’t available, thawed frozen corn works as a convenient alternative.
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Customize It: Feel free to get creative! Add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or toss in spinach for a nutritious twist.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy pasta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: When reheating, warm on low heat, stirring frequently, and adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
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Wrap Leftovers: If any burrata remains, it’s best to store it separately in the fridge to prevent it from becoming too soft; add it just before serving for the best experience.
Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting fresh corn?
Absolutely! For the sweetest taste, look for fresh corn that has bright green husks and plump, well-filled kernels. Avoid ears with dark spots or a husk that feels dry. Ideally, you want to use fresh sweet corn, but if it’s not available, frozen corn will work in a pinch.
How should I store leftover Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, go low and slow on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to keep that creamy texture you love.
Can I freeze Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata?
Yes! If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the creamy pasta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on low heat while gently stirring and adding water or broth to achieve the right consistency.
What if my sauce is too thick when reheating?
No worries! If the sauce seems thick upon reheating, simply add a small amount of reserved pasta water or broth gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, the sauce should be creamy and easy to coat the bucatini.
Are there any dietary considerations for using burrata?
For those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, I recommend substituting burrata with a plant-based cheese alternative. This will keep the dish creamy without triggering any dietary concerns. Always check the labels of any substitutes if allergies are a concern.
Can I use a different pasta in this recipe?
Very! While bucatini holds the sauce beautifully, any long pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine can be used as a substitute. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to achieve that perfect al dente texture!
Creamy Corn and Bucatini with Burrata for Summer Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the dried bucatini according to the package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Remember to reserve 1½ cups of pasta water before draining!
- Sauté Corn: In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add ¾ of the corn kernels, chili flakes, and kosher salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring until the corn is bright yellow and tender.
- Simmer Mixture: Pour in the reserved pasta water and let the corn mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and create a lovely, creamy sauce texture.
- Blend Sauce: Using an immersion blender, blend the corn mixture directly in the pot until it's mostly smooth and creamy, leaving a few chunks for texture and flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained bucatini to the blended sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand evenly. Taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as desired.
- Serve with Style: Plate the pasta, generously topping it with the remaining corn kernels, broken pieces of burrata, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, and finely minced chives. Serve immediately for the best experience!